House of Reps condemns Sokoto, Kaduna abductions, Urges swift action

The House of Representatives strongly condemns the recent abduction of innocent citizens, particularly the abduction of pupils in Sokoto and Kaduna States.

These criminal acts are not just attacks on individuals but also on the fundamental right to education and security of our citizens.

In response to these abductions and other criminal activities, the House deliberated on three motions on Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th March 2024 moved by Rep. Sada Soli (APC, Katsina), Rep. Zainab Gimba (APC, Borno) and Rep. Mukhtar Zakari (APC, Kaduna) on the need to address the growing concerns of insecurity in the country. 

The House consequently called on security agencies to increase the pressure against all criminal elements across the country as part of our firm commitment to work with the executive towards ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians in line with our Legislative Agenda.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen PhD in his reaction, has stated that "No Nigerian should be in captivity. Our schools must be safe for our children," 

"We must collectively rise to the occasion and stem the tide of abductions, especially of women and children, at a time when the government is making efforts to address the high rate of out-of-school children. The schools must be safe for our children. Our security agencies need to act fast,” Speaker Abbas added.

The House calls on the military and other security agencies to swiftly go after the abductors and ensure the safe rescue of the victims. It is imperative that security agencies step up their efforts to protect our citizens, especially women and children, from these heinous crimes.

Furthermore, the House stands in solidarity with the affected families and communities and assures them of our unwavering commitment to their safety and well-being. We call on all Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

We urge the government to prioritise the safety and security of all Nigerians and take decisive action to end these abductions and restore peace and stability in our communities.

Signed:

Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.
House Spokesman
Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs